Can DUI Fees Be Included in Bankruptcy?

Can DUI Fees Be Included in Bankruptcy?

Posted By
Jonathan Blecher, P.A.

A lot of people get into trouble with court-ordered fines, whether they’re
for a moving violation, such as speeding, a ticket for driving without
insurance, or driving under the influence (DUI). When these fines are
ignored, things go downhill from there. Eventually, a past-due fine will
be sent to collections and it will negatively affect the driver’s
credit score.

Suppose you’re facing
DUI charges and you’re wondering, “What will happen if I’m convicted
and I don’t pay the hefty fine (up to $2,000 for a first DUI)? I’m
already thinking about filing bankruptcy, can the DUI fine be included
if I decide to file for bankruptcy relief?” This is a good question
and it does come up periodically.

DUI Fines Cannot Be Included in Bankruptcy

DUI fines cannot be discharged in bankruptcy. Why? Because, they are court-ordered
fines, which are non-dischargeable debts. When debtors file for bankruptcy,
certain debts can be discharged, such as unsecured debts (think credit
cards, personal loans, and medical debt), while other debts cannot be
discharged.

If you’re facing DUI charges in Miami, there are various fines and
fees that can be imposed by the court, and you cannot avoid paying these
fees. As a general rule, they are not dischargeable in bankruptcy and
if you fail to pay them, you will not be able to get your driver license
back. The best chance you have to improve the outcome is to fight your
DUI charges and seek a dismissal or a favorable plea bargain.